Kingston hit-and-run leaves boy in serious condition

The family of a little boy who was the victim of a hit-and-run while crossing Koenig Boulevard Thursday is asking for privacy and thanking friends for their support.

Amir Russ, 2, was at the intersection near Spring Brook Village in Kingston just after 10 p.m. when he was struck. The driver sped off, but witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored vehicle pulling away from the scene and traveling southbound on Koenig toward Port Ewen.

Amir was upgraded from critical to serious condition Friday night, according to a spokesman at Westchester Medical Center. He was treated at the scene by emergency medical services and rushed to St. Francis Hospital. He was later transferred to Westchester.

He will celebrate his third birthday in the ICU on Sunday.

Authorities were told that the toddler walked out of his babysitter's care and wandered on to the road by himself.

A statement from the family of Amir was released Friday night through the hospital:

"We are grateful for the outpouring of concern and support from our loved ones and all of our friends and neighbors. Amir is in serious condition at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital at Westchester Medical Center where he is receiving excellent care and we are optimistic about his recovery.

Moving forward during this very difficult time we ask that you honor our family's request for privacy so we can focus on Amir's care."

Police are searching for the driver. The Kingston Police Department is asking anyone with information to come forward. Call 845-331-1671 or use the "Submit a tip" app on the Kingston Police Department's Facebook page. All calls will remain confidential.